SPARTA — The Sparta Chess Team excelled in four state tournaments and one national event, and maintained its reputation as the best public school chess program in New Jersey.Coach Tom Murray, Austin K., Eryk and Adam B. played in the largest team event in the world, the US Amateur Team Championship held in Parsippany.While facing the stiffest competition ever, all four raised their national rankings.The Alpine team finished third in the NJ Primary Championship with Lucas R. winning four of five games. Sam E. only lost once.Other team members were Vaiden P., Alex L., and Surekha S..The Helen Morgan team placed fifth in the NJ Elementary Championship. Jonathan and Timothy L., Brian S., Glen M., Sean A., Ben L. and Karthik S. held a share of the lead through the first three rounds in a very closely fought tournament.

Sparta Middle School placed third behind the sparkling play of Anthony E..Alex S., Keith J. and Daniel L. each had three wins. Ryan R., Nick G., Griffin M., and Tyler S. all contributed to the effort.The Sparta HS Varsity entered two teams in the NJ High School Championship and placed eighth and ninth.The Blue team upset the third seed, Union Co Tech in the first round.The White team had a tough battle with fourth place finisher, Columbia, and the Blue team finished with a close loss to eventual winner, Lenape Regional.The biggest event is yet to come. The Supernationals takes place in Nashville Tennessee from April 4 through 7. Sparta will be entering five teams.The Sparta Chess Team receives no funds from the Board of Education, and depends on the charitable donations. If interested in donating, please contact Tom Murray at 973-726-9405.